Hi! I’m Dara,

The name 'Dara' means 'good' in Yoruba. 

 

' The Dara Journal' began as my own messy notebook, a place where I dumped feelings I didn’t know how to say out loud. The name came later, when I realized what writing was doing for me: it was giving me back something good. Something healing. Something whole. Now, I want it to do the same for others.

 

This isn’t just a journal. It’s a quiet revolution made of pen, paper, and people brave enough to feel. It’s for teens and young adults who are tired of bottling things up. For those who’ve been told to “move on,” “man up,” “get over it,” or “be strong.” Dara Journal says: 'Feel. Write. Breathe. You’re not alone.'

 

We’re a platform for raw, emotional, and thoughtful expression whether through poetry, journal entries, reflections, art, essays, or even anonymous letters. We focus on real stories messy ones, healing ones, half-finished ones. Especially from young people navigating mental health, identity, grief, hope, and the pressure of just being.

 

Our goal is to build a community where writing becomes a survival skill. We want journaling to be seen not just as a hobby, but as a form of therapy, one that’s free, private, powerful, and deeply human. We also aim to showcase young African voices, reminding the world that stories from this continent are not only valid, but vital.

 

Dara means good. So yes, this is a 'good' journal. Good because it listens. Good because it holds space. Good because it reminds you that your words matter.

 

You don’t have to be a perfect writer. You don’t even have to call yourself one. Just come as you are. Bring your truth, your art, your scars, your softness.

 

There’s room for you here.

 

Welcome to Dara Journal, where healing begins with a blank page.

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